Driving Change in Asbestos Disposal: Reducing Waste and Supporting Sustainability in the Hotel Industry.
Asbestos management is a critical component of maintaining safe and compliant hotel operations. However, the industry’s current practices, particularly in waste disposal, present significant environmental challenges. UK legal requirements mandate that asbestos waste be double-wrapped in 1000-gauge polythene and buried in designated landfill sites. While these measures prioritise safety, they also result in the disposal of millions of square metres of polythene annually – an unsustainable practice that calls for innovation and change.
The Environmental Impact of Asbestos Disposal
The current approach to asbestos waste management focuses heavily on containment and compliance, with minimal regard for the environmental consequences. Each year, the industry contributes vast amounts of polythene to landfill, exacerbating waste issues and failing to align with modern sustainability goals. For hotels, which often market themselves as champions of green initiatives, this presents a conflict: how can compliance coexist with sustainability?
Leading the Way Towards Change
At Kusten Vorland, we recognise the need to challenge the status quo and influence the industry towards more sustainable practices. While there are currently no viable alternatives to the mandated double-wrapping of asbestos waste, we are committed to:
Advocating for Change: Collaborating with regulators, industry bodies, and waste management professionals to explore alternative materials and methods that reduce reliance on polythene.
Encouraging Innovation: Supporting research into new technologies and solutions that minimise environmental impact while maintaining the safety and compliance standards required for asbestos disposal.
Educating the Industry: Raising awareness among hotel operators about the environmental impact of current practices and the steps they can take to mitigate waste wherever possible.
What Hotels Can Do Now
While systemic change will take time, there are immediate steps hotels can take to contribute to sustainability efforts:
Partner with Responsible Providers: Work with asbestos management companies, like Küsten Vorland, which are committed to reducing waste and seeking sustainable solutions.
Optimise Waste Management: Ensure proper segregation and handling of asbestos waste to avoid unnecessary contamination and disposal of non-asbestos materials.
Support Industry Innovation: Join collective efforts to advocate for sustainable practices and encourage innovation through partnerships or funding.
A Vision for a Greener Future
The hotel industry has the opportunity to lead by example, demonstrating that operational safety and sustainability can go hand in hand. By partnering with forward-thinking providers and embracing innovative approaches, hotels can align their compliance efforts with their green goals – protecting both their employees and the planet.
At Kusten Vorland, we’re not just managing asbestos; we’re driving change. Let’s work together to influence the future of asbestos management and create a more sustainable industry for generations to come. Explore our services to see how we can support your hotel’s asbestos management needs.
